SANTA ANA, Calif., Nov. 1, 2016 /Christian Newswire/ -- In 2015, more than 7,000 Christians were killed specifically because of their faith. This Sunday, Open Doors USA is urging Christians and churches to remember those killed and pray for those in more than 60 countries around the world still facing persecution because of their faith.

Nov. 6 marks the annual International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. Individuals and churches can participate by accessing free, downloadable resources or purchasing a resource kit. Resources include:

A pastor working in Central Asia can address the rapid spread of Christianity among Muslims, the growing government control and watchfulness of Christians, and what churches are up against in his part of the world.

David Curry, Open Doors USA president and CEO, can discuss ways Americans can support those who are persecuted around the world.

Open Doors will also be hosting Facebook Live events this week, featuring interviews with persecuted Christians along with other news, stories and special guests.

According to Open Doors President and CEO David Curry, the International Day of Prayer is an important reminder for Christians living in Western countries. "Time and time again we hear Christians who live in fear everyday because of their faith saying prayer is the most important thing we can do," said Curry. "Having a day specifically set aside to pray for the persecuted is an important encouragement to those who are suffering, and we must never forget those who are facing the unimaginable for their faith."

About Open Doors USA For more than 60 years, Open Doors USA has worked in the world's most oppressive and restrictive countries in support of persecuted Christians. Open Doors works to equip and encourage Christians living in dangerous circumstances with the threat of persecution and equips the Western church to advocate on their behalf. Christians are the most persecuted religious group in the world and are oppressed in at least 60 countries. For more information, visit OpenDoorsUSA.org.